South African Journalists Face Growing Harassment in Courtrooms, Sanef Takes Action
Journalists in South Africa are increasingly facing harassment while covering court proceedings, with a disturbing rise in instances where court authorities, including prosecutors, defense lawyers, and magistrates, are obstructing their work. Reports indicate that journalists are being instructed not to write articles about certain cases, a development that has alarmed the South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef).
At its recent annual general meeting, Sanef condemned these actions as an abuse of power and an attempt to muzzle the press. The forum resolved to bolster the Media Defence Legal Fund and reaffirm its support for journalists under siege. Reggy Moalusi, Sanef’s executive director, emphasized that the organization is committed to addressing these issues in line with the priorities of journalists and media houses facing legal challenges.
Moalusi highlighted that harassment of journalists has been on the rise, with Sanef and other like-minded organizations working to create a central fund to address media abuses stemming from court-related issues. He noted previous discussions with former Minister Ronald Lamola, who acknowledged the problem but indicated it was beyond his immediate remit. Sanef plans to engage with the new minister to seek assurances regarding journalists’ access to courts and improved treatment, criticizing current intimidation tactics.
The issue of journalist harassment is not confined to major cities but has also impacted smaller towns such as Matatiele in the Eastern Cape. Local journalists have reported being removed from courtrooms on two occasions. In one instance, a journalist from The Informer covering a rape case involving a teacher and a learner was summoned to the magistrate’s chambers and instructed to complete a request form to attend the court, with a directive not to write about the case. A similar incident occurred in Maluti.
Luxolo Tyhali, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Eastern Cape, responded to the concerns, stating, “I don’t see why journalists are being made to face such difficulties. It might be a lack of understanding of media by authorities, but we are committed to addressing this issue.”
Sanef’s proactive stance reflects growing concerns over press freedom and the need for transparent and accountable court proceedings.
